What is Sublimation T-Shirt Printing?
The term “sublimation” is a unique term used to describe a printing process. This process transforms solid inks into a gaseous state, which then permanently binds to the fabric of a garment, for example, a shirt.
While this may sound complicated, the outcome is impressive – a vibrant, full-color print that lasts for many years to come.
However, the sublimation process is not as simple as it sounds. It’s a sophisticated technique that requires specialized equipment and training. Many companies that produce custom apparel will use sublimation on ready-made garments, but this is not the most ideal approach for achieving the best quality sublimated products.
Instead, a cut and sew process is recommended. This method ensures each print is flawless and the garment is of superior quality. By using a cut and sew process, each garment is tailored to be unique, allowing for a polished aesthetic and a higher quality end product.
Let’s delve into the specifics of each process so you can fully appreciate the benefits of cut and sew sublimation.
How Sublimation Creates Long-Lasting Prints
Sublimation is a specialized printing process that utilizes heat-activated dyes to imprint designs onto fabric. This method is a great way to create full-color, full-coverage prints on apparel.
The process starts with a white or light-colored garment. The manufacturer takes your design and applies the ink to the fabric. When heat is applied, the ink turns into a gas, allowing it to penetrate deep into the fibers of the fabric. As the ink cools, it solidifies, becoming permanently embedded within the fabric.
This differs from traditional screen printing, where the ink rests on top of the fabric, rather than becoming an integral part of it. As a result, screenprinted designs are more prone to cracking, fading, or peeling over time. Sublimation, on the other hand, ensures a long-lasting, vibrant design that won’t easily deteriorate.
Benefits of All Over Sublimation Printing
So, what makes sublimation so special? It boasts unique benefits that make it an attractive option for custom apparel projects. Here are some key reasons why:
High-Resolution, Full-Color Prints
While screen printing is best for designs with limited colors, sublimation allows for an unlimited color palette. If you want your design to truly pop, sublimation is an exceptional printing method. The quality is outstanding, and you can even create photorealistic images on your garments.
Ideal for Full Coverage Prints
One major advantage of sublimation is its ability to print all over a garment. Traditional printing methods struggle to print over seams and hems. But with sublimation, the ink penetrates the fabric’s fibers, enabling you to print seamlessly across any part of the garment.
Durability
Sublimation prints are exceptionally durable. They are known to retain their vibrancy for years to come. Since it’s not a “print” rather the fabric is dyed so your garment will last as long as the actual shirt since it’s one piece!
Ready to create your Sublimation design?
Why the Cut and Sew Process Works Well With Sublimation
The cut and sew process is precisely what it sounds like: a manufacturing method where the fabric is dyed and then cut and sewn into the final garment. This process is crucial for achieving the best results with sublimation printing.
Precise Print
Cut and sew sublimation guarantees a precise print. There’s no risk of the design becoming distorted during assembly because the fabric is dyed before it’s cut and sewn.
Consistent Quality
Without the cut and sew process, sublimation can lead to blurry or inconsistent prints. This is because the design is printed after the garment is assembled, which can cause the fabric to stretch and distort the print.
Avoid Creases and Patches
With a less experienced partner you might notice white creases or inconsistent patches on the finished garment after sublimation. The cut and sew process eliminates these issues by ensuring the fabric is cut before it’s sewn. This means your print will be flawless, regardless of the garment’s size or shape.
Higher Quality Garment
The cut and sew process produces a higher quality garment overall. This is because the garment is meticulously crafted from start to finish, with care and attention to detail.
Durability
When you order a custom garment that has been cut and sewn, you can be confident that it was made with care and will last for years to come. Each seam is sewn with precision, and the fabric is cut specifically for your garment. This results in a superior quality garment compared to one simply printed on a blank.
Polished Look
The cut and sew process creates a more polished look. Since each garment is custom made to your specifications, there’s minimal risk of inconsistencies in the print or fabric.
Limitations of Sublimation Printing
While sublimation offers numerous benefits, it’s important to be aware of some limitations:
Fabric Choice
Sublimation works best on polyester fabrics. It doesn’t perform well on cotton, making it unsuitable if you need to print on cotton garments.
Dark-Colored Garments
Sublimation printing also doesn’t work well on dark-colored garments. The prints tend to be less vibrant on darker fabrics because the ink doesn’t show up as well. Screen printing would be a more suitable option if you need to print on dark garments.
Expert Manufacturer
Working with a manufacturer who has experience with sublimation is crucial. Otherwise, you might be unhappy with the final product.
What Does Cut and Sew Sublimation Mean for Your Brand?
Your product is the heart of your business. By investing in the cut and sew process, you’re investing in your brand’s future.
Stand Out from the Competition
If you’re serious about building a successful apparel brand, consider cut and sew sublimation printing. It helps you create unique, high-quality garments that differentiate your brand from the competition.
Higher Prices
Because the cut and sew process results in a higher quality garment, you can charge more for your products. Customers are often happy to pay a premium for well-made and stylish garments.
Satisfied Customers
The apparel industry is highly competitive. Prioritizing customer satisfaction is crucial. Cut and sew sublimation helps you achieve this goal. Your customers will be impressed with the quality and intricate details of your designs, leading to higher satisfaction and repeat business.
Unique Brand Identity
With the cut and sew process, you can create unique garments that stand out from the competition. This helps you establish a strong brand identity. For example, you could customize your garment by using varying panel sizes and shapes, unique sleeve styles, or adding pockets, zippers, or other embellishments.
Cohesive Brand Image
To create a cohesive brand image, the cut and sew process is vital. Working with a professional manufacturer ensures all your garments maintain the same high quality and aesthetic. This helps you establish a consistent brand identity that resonates with your customers.
More Control Over Your Products
When you work with a manufacturer on a cut and sew sublimation project, you have more control over the final product. This allows you to ensure your garments are exactly what you want.
We’re Here to Help!
We offer a comprehensive custom apparel manufacturing solution. We source premium fabrics, inks, and other materials to produce high-quality garments for our customers.
Our team of expert sublimation specialists can bring your vision to life. We have strong relationships with some of the best sewing contractors in the world.
We are dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring your garments meet your expectations. We’ve been in the apparel industry for over 13 years, and we understand what it takes to create garments that help build successful brands.
We take care of every step of the manufacturing process, from design to delivery. All you need to do is send us your design, and we’ll rest!
Our Brand Building Process (BBP) is designed to streamline the process and provide you with complete control. We’ll involve you in all the important decision-making processes, allowing you to review detailed pre-production layouts before your order goes into production. This way, you can be sure your garments will meet your expectations.
If you’re not happy with something, we’ll make changes until you are. Once you approve the final design, we’ll manufacture your order and ship it to your doorstep for free!
Ready for uniforms your way?
Your product is the heart of your business. By investing in the cut and sew process, you’re investing in your brand’s future.
